Closer Look with Rose Scott

April marks National Autism Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest data, 1 in 31 children in the U.S. have been identified with autism spectrum disorder. Rose talks with Georgia Tech associate professor Jennifer Singh. She discusses autism symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment while highlighting inequities in services through her documentary  “Navigating Autism in Communities of Color.” Parents Dr. Bernadette Kilo and Natasha Nelson also share personal stories of raising children with autism and advocate for better support systems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia Interfaith Power & Light (GIPL) is an organization that aims to empower people of faith to engage in issues such as environmental injustices, pollution, climate change and more. Marqus Cole, who serves as the organizing director for GIPL, talks more about the organization’s work and impact. He also shares his thoughts about how faith intersects with climate activism. Plus, Wanona Satcher is on a mission to address the housing crisis. She is the CEO and founder of Mākhers Studio. The East Point-based construction and management firm specializes in transforming shipping containers into housing and retail solutions. As we spotlight “Closer Look’s” most memorable conversations, we revisit Rose’s conversation with Satcher. She talks about her vision to use micro-housing as a sustainable and viable option to solve the home affordability problem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Residents spoke out about the poor conditions of the Chelsea Gardens apartments in College Park. Now, they must find a new place to live. The City of College Park has reportedly condemned the complex due to its deplorable state, giving residents short notice to move. Shakira Fortson with the Party for Socialism and Liberation, outgoing resident Andre Harris and former resident Cassandra Meenaghan share their experience at Chelsea Gardens, what’s next for them, and the actions they want the property owner and city officials to take. Plus, the final prom event in Cobb County for the 2025 season is happening on Saturday. The goal is to make sure Cobb County students with special needs, affectionally known as “rockstars,”  feel seen, celebrated, and supported. For 15 years, Superior Plumbing and the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office have partnered together to make sure prom night is an unforgettable experience for these students. Randi Okray, the communication and public relations specialist for Cobb County Sheriff's Office, and Jay Cunningham, founder of Superior Plumbing who launched the initiative, talk more about the annual tradition that coincides with Autism Awareness Month. Cunningham also talks about the initiative’s impact and the inspiration behind it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University is hosting the Arts and Wellbeing Summit: Artistic Expression and Processing Grief on April 25-26. Rose talks with Katie Ericson-Baskin, the Ingram director of education at the Michael C. Carlos Museum, and Laney Castle, an administrative coordinator for the education department at the Michael C. Carlos Museum. They talk more about the summit and how art can be used to help process grief. Plus, the Arts and Wellbeing Summit features support and participation from organizations such as The Grief House. The nonprofit says it’s a space for community-led support for grief and all kinds of loss. The “Closer Look” team recently visited The Grief House at Legacy Park in Decatur. We revisit Rose’s conversation with the executive director and co-founder Sascha Demerjian, Shonali Banerjee, a yoga teacher and musician, who works at the Grief House, and Kelly Yates, a mother who is dealing with grief after her son died in 2022.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An energy audit can help new homeowners save money — not just through energy efficiency but with tax credits and more. However, an energy audit is not a required step in the homebuying process. Data also reveals that low-income households spend a larger share of their income on energy costs when compared to other households and that Georgia ranks in the top 5 for states with the highest energy burden. Cosco Jones, the owner and a consultant at Jones Sustainable Solutions Group, discusses what a proper "energy audit" should look like, and how poor energy efficiency has long-term consequences for a homeowner's budget and wellbeing.   Plus, a chain-link fence separates a community garden from I-20. Mozley Park residents who are members of the Five Mile Project (5MP) have been advocating for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to install noise barriers in their neighborhood. As we feature some of “Closer Look’s” most memorable conversations, we revisit Rose’s conversation with 5MP members Mia Pennington and Keith Palmer. They talk more about the noise concerns and efforts to beautify their neighborhood.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year marks the 56th Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race. Rich Kenah, who serves as the race director and the CEO of the Atlanta Track Club, returns to “Closer Look” to talk more about this year's expanded race experience, which includes the return of a cherished tradition.   Plus, Flying Change Equine Therapy fosters emotional healing and wellness through equine-assisted therapy and learning. As we feature some of “Closer Look’s” most memorable conversations, we revisit Rose’s conversation with Lissa Corcoran, the founder and executive director for Flying Change. Corcoran tells the backstory of what led her to start the nonprofit and explains how rescued horses are helping both children and adults heal from trauma.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Youth Villages is expanding its family support, mental and behavioral health services to reach more Georgia communities. The Intercept program is beginning in Rockdale, Douglas, and Paulding Counties. Tanya Anderson, the executive director of Youth Villages Georgia, and Jameta Wheeler, the state manager for In-Home Services at Youth Villages, talk more about Intercept and Youth Villages’ new pilot contract with the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Development Disabilities.   Also, on the evening of June 15, 1930, a mob lynched Morehouse student Dennis Hubert. This May, Hubert will be posthumously awarded an honorary bachelor of arts degree during the commencement ceremony. Ann Hill Bond, an Atlanta-based journalist and chair of the Fulton County Remembrance Coalition, and Imam Plemon T. El-Amin, Hubert’s nephew, talk more about Hubert’s life, and the legacy of Hubert’s mother, an educator, who served as a principal of the Crogmsn School, where Hubert was lynched.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s special edition of "Closer Look," Rose and the team take listeners out into the community. First, we begin with a climate gentrification tour in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. Rose talks with Adrienne Rice, the executive director of Sustainable Georgia Futures, about the nonprofit’s mission to help specific communities grow and thrive in the green industry. We also hear from Genesis Tilman, Drew Barnes and Liyaah Rocha who participated in the walking tour.    Plus, Edgewood Garden is a place for community. The urban greenspace, operated by the Wylde Center, was once the site of an apartment building. It was transformed into a community garden back in 2012, part of a revitalization effort to serve residents of the area. It now has a playground, picnic benches, honeybees, butterflies, fruit trees, vegetable beds and more. But one of the garden’s most popular attributes is its chickens. Rose talks with Jennifer Gerndt, Matty Garrett, Gordon Dyker of the Wylde Center to learn more about Edgewood Garden and its nature center. We also hear from Heath Ward, the co-founder of City Chick, who discusses people’s growing interest in raising their own chickens as egg prices rise.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump’s 100-day mark for his second term is fast approaching. Since taking office, the Trump administration has already taken several executive actions on education, immigration and more. Today’s special edition of “Closer Look” focused on the potential economic and social challenges the Atlanta region could face within the next four years. The conversation allowed guests to share their concerns and thoughts about the local response and mobilization to federal actions.   Guests include:   Staci Fox, the president and CEO of the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute   Fallon McClure, the deputy southeast regional director for Working Families Power   Fred A. Jones,  the senior director of public policy and advocacy at the Southern Education Foundation   Nathaniel Smith, the founder and chief equity officer of the Atlanta-based Partnership for Southern EquitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beyond democratic freedoms, what factors into how Black Americans thrive socially and economically? It’s a theme that’s explored in the new book, “BLACK POWER SCORECARD: Measuring the Racial Gap and What We Can Do to Close It.” The book’s author, Professor Andre M. Perry is a nationally recognized expert on race, structural inequality, economic inclusion, and education. In his book, he studies the life expectancy for Black Americans across multiple cities. He also rates their power based on quality and access to property, business, wealth, education, health, and social mobility. Perry talks more about how each of these factors are linked to the social and economic power of Black People.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia-based Appen Media and Decaturish.com have launched a new print edition, Decaturish Ink. Dan Whisenhunt, the founder and editor of the online community news outlet, talked more about the new print component. He also shared details about the publication’s goals of providing deeper, more narrative-driven content that seeks to capture the spirit and unique voices of Decatur and surrounding areas like Avondale Estates, Clarkston, Tucker, Chamblee, Kirkwood and Stone Mountain.   Plus, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), recognizes April as Fair Housing Month. The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination. Richard Rothstein, a housing scholar and author of 'The Color of Law' and co-author of 'Just Action,' returns to “Closer Look” to assess the Trump administration’s housing policy and the historical context of unequal housing practices in the U.S.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s special edition of Closer Look with Rose Scott, we’re joined by a roundtable of former employees of the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Since taking office for a second time, the Trump Administration has reportedly committed to cutting 10,000 federal employees from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The mass layoffs began April 1st, with a projected reduction of 2,400 workers at the CDC. That’s about 18% of the staff, reportedly impacting some of the agency’s vital research and health provisions. Today, we ask our panel of professionals about the mass layoffs and how it could impact the work of the CDC and your health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott: Over the weekend, a reported 3 million people in the U.S., and even some abroad, joined more than 1,200 demonstrations to protest the Trump administration’s wave of executive orders and other policies. Organizers for the Atlanta Hands Off! protest, Laura Judge, a communications official with Hands Off! and Indivisible North Metro Atlanta, and John Morris, the secretary and treasurer for 50501 Georgia, Inc., talk more about the protest, the unifying message they want to send and what’s next.   Also, as the Atlanta baseball season gets underway, the local fan club Bravest ATL is renewing its push for the Atlanta Braves to change its name and branding. Brothers and Bravest ATL founders Marty and Chris Buccafusco talk more about their mission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2025 Georgia legislative session has come to an end.  Hundreds of debated bills await Governor Brian Kemp’s signature, while many more missed out on a vote. That includes a stack of controversial Senate priorities that went unpassed by the House. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali return to ‘Closer Look,’ to discuss the state budget, the themes they noticed this legislative session and some of the most talked about bills this session. Some of the measures they discussed involved school safety, restrictions on puberty blockers for minors, and efforts to reduce civil litigation, also known as tort reform.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this day, 57 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated while standing on the balcony of his motel room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. Friday’s special edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott" focuses on the life and legacy of King, specifically his efforts to lead with courage and integrity and to inspire others to be moral leaders. We revisit Rose’s conversations with the now-late Memphis attorney Michael W. Cody and Dr. Robert Michael Franklin Jr., an author, theologian and Emory University’s James T. and Berta R. Laney Professor in Moral Leadership.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sine Dine is fast approaching as the 2025 Georgia legislative session nears an end. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali return to ‘Closer Look,’ to discuss the status of some of the most talked about bills. Plus, with more corporations turning away from diversity, equity and inclusion programs, the NAACP is empowering Black consumers to shop with companies that value their dollars and their rights. Gerald Griggs, the president of the NAACP Georgia State Conference, discusses the newly launched Black Consumer Advisory. Lastly, we continue our two-part series looking at the benefits and the harm of using AI in the job hiring process. Data suggests by the end of the year, nearly 70% of businesses are expected to use AI for reviewing resumes, rejecting candidates or even conducting entire interviews. Hilke Schellmann, an investigative journalist and professor at New York University, is the author of the book, "The Algorithm."  Schellemann says AI has invaded the workplace, calling the evolving phenomenon "the next civil rights issue of our time.” Previously, Rose talked with Dan Beck, the president and chief product officer at SAP SuccessFactors, about what he says are some of the pros of AI being used in the workplace. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mableton Mayor Michael Owens is approaching the two-year mark into his term as leader of the largest city in Cobb County. Mayor Owens returns to “Closer Look,” to talk more about how the relatively new city is fairing and his top priorities. He also shares details about how city leaders are addressing urban development, affordable housing, education and more.   Plus, the White House has announced plans to cut more than 80,000 employees from Veterans Affairs, many of whom are veterans themselves. The cuts would come to an already reportedly understaffed VA System, adding to concerns about slower access to healthcare for veterans. Kyle Bibby, the co-CEO of the Black Veterans Project, and Lindsay Church, the executive director of Minority Veterans of America, respond to the potential cuts, the Pentagon purge of archives that documented diversity in the military, as well as the recent national security mishap when plans for an upcoming military strike in Yemen were shared with a journalist using Signal.   Lastly, Wednesday marks what would have been soul singer Marvin Gaye’s 86th birthday. In celebration of his life and legacy, his sister Zeola Gaye and the Elite Success Talent Group have put together the musical production “The Evolution of My Brother Marvin Tribute.” The show will be at The Buckhead Theatre on Thursday, April 3. Rose talks with Zeola Gaye and Chae Stephen, who portrays the timeless artist. They talk more about the production and discuss their efforts to preserve Marvin’s legacy by ensuring that his music continues to inspire generations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens recently appointed Judge LaDawn Blackett to be Atlanta's interim inspector general. Her appointment comes in the aftermath of Shannon Manigault’s resignation over alleged interference and harassment. Interim IG Blackett joins “Closer Look” to discuss leading the OIG and her top priorities while assigned to lead the office.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Night of Ideas Atlanta is an annual event that fosters late-night discussions geared toward addressing specific global issues. This year, WABE partnered with Villa Albertine, the Goat Farm Arts Center and Night of Ideas Atlanta to host the event, which featured live music, art and several panel discussions. The theme of this year’s program, which took place on March 29, was common ground. Rose Scott served as the moderator. Today, we will air the opening panel discussion. Rose asked panelists this question: To what extent is Atlanta a common ground for the different communities that call it home?   Guests included:   Illya Davis, a professor of philosophy at Morehouse College and the director of Freshmen and Seniors' Academic Success Programs    Writer and publisher Walid Hajar Rachedi   TEDxAtlanta organizer Jacqui Chew   Gigi Pedraza, the executive director and founder of the Latino Community Fund Georgia   Saba Long, the executive director of Atlanta Civic CircleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to the latest data from Giving USA, charitable giving reached $557.16 billion in the U.S. in 2023. As the philanthropic landscape continues to evolve, younger generations of Americans will soon be the beneficiaries of what is called the “Great Wealth Transfer.” This will position Gen X, millennials and Gen Z at the forefront of our nation’s charitable giving. For the March installment of “Coffee Conversations” the “Closer Look” team heads to Dancing Goats in Midtown. Rose talks with local nonprofit leaders about the future of NexGen philanthropy and their efforts to attract new donors to non-traditional causes.   Guests include:   Aaron Shively, the vice president of operations at Dancing Goats Coffee Raphael Lewis, the general manager of Dancing Goats Coffee Midtown Fay Twersky, the president of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Tim Bresnahan, the vice president of advancement & philanthropic services at the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta Karen Beavor, the president and CEO of the Georgia Center for Nonprofits Che Watkins, the executive director for Braven-Atlanta   Rodney Bullard, the founder and CEO of the Same House Hope Wollensack, the executive director of Georgia Resilience and Opportunity FundSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The book, "It’s Not You, It’s Capitalism," explores the economic challenges Gen Z and millennials are facing in the current economy while offering up possible solutions from labor leaders, economists and more. Author Malaika Jabali, who is an attorney, activist, and the senior news and politics editor at Essence Magazine, talks about the inspiration behind her book and her research on capitalism. Ayoka Chenzira is a veteran transmedia storyteller. She is an award-winning filmmaker, television director and digital media artist. As a pioneer in Black independent cinema, she is credited with being one of the first Black women to write, produce and direct a 35-millimeter feature film. She joins “Closer Look” for our Women's History Month series, "Piloting the Journey."  Chenzira talks more about how she has used imagination, creativity and innovation across multiple platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new book,  "There Is No Place For Us" features the stories of five Atlanta families struggling to find and keep safe, stable housing. These working families represent the country's "hidden homeless," people who sleep in cars or extended-stay motels but aren't tracked by government homelessness counts. Atlanta-based journalist Brian Goldstone, who authored the book, talks more about his book and Atlanta’s growing homelessness crisis.   Nannie Helen Burroughs was an educator, a suffragist and a Black labor activist. Her life’s story and legacy are the focus of the new book, “Nannie Helen Burroughs: A Tower of Strength in the Labor World.” The book's author, Dr. Danielle Phillips-Cunningham, is an associate professor of labor studies and employment relations at Rutgers University. She joins “Closer Look” to talk more about her book and Burroughs’ fight for the education and upward career mobility of Black women. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new book, "Slavery After Slavery" reveals how some landowners in the South used “forced apprenticeships” re-enslave emancipated Black children. The court system supported a majority of these “forced apprenticeships,” resulting in many children being separated from their families in the years following the Emancipation Proclamation. Dr. Mary Frances Berry, who is an acclaimed historian, educator, activist and author, will give a lecture about the book at Emory University on Friday, March 28. Ahead of her visit to Atlanta, Dr. Berry joined “Closer Look,” to share more about her research and details what she believes are the modern-day consequences of re-enslavement.   Democratic Senator Nan Orrock, who represents Senate District 36, is the founder of the Georgia Legislative Women’s Caucus and the Working Families Legislative Caucus. For decades, Orrock has been at the forefront of legislation that has centered civil rights, women’s issues, health policy, workforce issues, environmental issues and more. She joins Closer Look” for our Women's History Month series, "Piloting the Journey."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gallup polling shows the economy was the top issue for voters in the 2024 presidential election, and President Trump ran on a promise to immediately lower prices. Now, two months into his second term, Trump’s push for tariffs is raising recession concerns for some economists. Amid the economic uncertainty, consumers are witnessing rising costs for everyday goods and services, such as groceries. On today’s Feedback Friday edition of “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” we’re asking consumers: How have your spending habits changed?  Tom Smith, a professor in the practice of finance at Emory University, joins us for the discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Data suggest 68% of all companies will use AI in the hiring process by the end of 2025. Today, we begin a two-part series looking at the benefits and the harm of using AI in the job hiring process. Many companies are using AI to review resumes, reject candidates without human input or oversight, and even conduct entire interviews. Dan Beck is the president and chief product officer at SAP SuccessFactors. He has used AI to help boost the workforce of companies like Delta. Beck talks more about the pros of AI being used by employers.   Plus, The B.E.S.T. Academy basketball team has won the Class A Division I championship. Earlier this month, marking the school’s first championship in any sport, the team defeated Southwest Macon 62-57. B.E.S.T. Academy head basketball coach Brian Weeden, Asst. Coach Mario Lemons and team members discuss their championship run.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Companies like Delta Air Lines are legally exempt from paying hotel/motel tax for their bookings that are more than 30 days. Hapeville Mayor Alan Hallman explains why this is a major concern for his city and why he supports the passage of House Bill 492. International Transgender Day of Visibility will be recognized on March 31. The day is used to celebrate transgender people and raise awareness about issues that impact them. Quinton Reynolds, the founder and executive director of Game Changing Men, and Toi Washington Reynolds, the founder of Trans Women of Color Healing Project, talked with show host Rose Scott about the work of their organizations. They also shared details about what they feel are the top concerns of Black transpeople and how their organizations are working to spread awareness at the Georgia State Capitol.   Ingrid Saunders Jones is a retired Coca-Cola Company executive and the former chair of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. She joins “Closer Look” for our Women’s History Month series, “Piloting the Journey.” Saunders Jones talks more about her decades-long career in the corporate world, working in politics and her time as an educator.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Trump recently signed an executive order to suspend the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and resettlement funding. However, a federal judge has blocked Trump's actions — calling it an overreach. For a roundtable discussion, “Closer Look” is joined by Reverend John R. Moeller Jr., the president and CEO of Inspiritus, Aimee Zangandou, the executive director of Refugee and Immigrant Services at Inspiritus and Louisa Merchant, the director of Refugee Ministries at All Saints Episcopal in Midtown. They talk with Rose regarding the disruption of resettlement services, the suspension of funding and other efforts to serve thousands of service refugees in Georgia.   Plus, Georgia lawmakers are weeks away from Sine Die for the 2025 legislative session. As the session is nearing an end, the ACLU is tracking 527 proposed bills, from across the U.S., that they refer to as “anti-LGBTQ bills. ” The ACLU claims 11 of those bills have been introduced in the Georgia Legislature. Jeff Graham, the executive director of Georgia Equality, talks more about the proposed legislation his organization is watching that allegedly targets the LGBTQ+ community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the U.S. Department of Education announced it was firing nearly 50% of its workforce. This all comes on the heels of President Trump’s ongoing efforts to eliminate the DOE and give its responsibilities to the states. On today’s Feedback Friday edition of “Closer Look,” show host Rose Scott asked listeners this question: Do you have faith Georgia can shoulder the responsibilities of the DOE without federal oversight and resources? Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum, president emerita of Spelman College and author of the New York Times bestseller “Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? And Other Conversations about Race,” and Tanya Washington, a professor of law at Georgia State University, added their perspectives to the discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump is just over 50 days into his second term. In a matter of weeks, he has signed a flurry of executive actions that have spurred confusion, led to layoffs and even prompted lawsuits. Eric Segall, the Ashe Family Chair professor of law at Georgia State University, provides an analysis of some pending lawsuits and court rulings. Segall also discusses Trump's executive power, Trump’s statement on so-called "illegal protests" and his threat to pull funding from colleges that allow such protests.   Last year, the US Department of Education provided up to $50 million in funding through its FAFSA Student Support Strategy to increase FAFSA completion rates for high school seniors, particularly for first-generation college students and for students of color. Under this effort, Jessica Johnson, a board member for the Atlanta Board of Education, and the founder and executive director of the Scholarship Academy, has worked to boost FAFSA completion rates for high school students across metro Atlanta. However, she says she was recently notified by the DOE about its decision not to continue funding its initiative. Johnson talks more about how the unfolding situation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we continue our series focusing on AI and insurance claims. It’s been reported that several health insurance companies are under scrutiny for using AI to allegedly deny mass amounts of claims. The California-based Clarkson Law Firm is now leading class action lawsuits against three major insurance companies. Glenn Danas, a partner at Clarkson Law Firm, says with the use of AI, it only took an insurer an average of 1.2 seconds to review a claim before rejecting more than 300,000 within two months.   Plus, Georgia State Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver, who represents House District 84, is a DeKalb County native and an attorney. The longtime politician is known for her efforts for fighting to protect children and consumers. She joins “Closer Look” for our Women’s History Month series, “Piloting the Journey.” Rep. Oliver talks with Rose about the journey through her career, pushing for legislation that she’s sponsored over the years and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Several health insurance companies are accused of using artificial intelligence to reject a massive number of claims - some as quick as 1.2 seconds. Today, we begin a two-day series focusing on A.I. and insurance claims. We hear from Rick Gundling, the senior vice president of professional practice with the Healthcare Financial Management Association. Plus, Monday marked 50 days since President Donald Trump took office for his second term. Among a long list of actions, he’s signed a flurry of executive actions involving tariffs, immigration, government spending and more. Some of Trump’s executive actions have prompted lawsuits, layoffs and protests. GSU politics and policy professor Tammy Greer returns to “Closer Look,” to share details regarding how students are responding to Trump’s presidency and questions they now have about the role and responsibility of government, and overall, how government is supposed to work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Several bills crossed between the Georgia House and Senate following Crossover Day last week, while others were stalled. WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali returns to “Closer Look,”  to provide an update on the bills that are one step closer to becoming law and to discuss the latest news happening at the Georgia State Capitol.   According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Georgia is among 12 jurisdictions that have reported new measles cases in 2025. Since the start of the year, there have been at least 222 measles cases reported and two measles-related deaths. Dr. Nicholas Church of Somerset Medical provides an overview on measles, discusses the recent outbreaks and shares tips on what you can do to protect yourself and your family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Crossover Day at the Georgia State Capitol. First, WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali returns to “Closer Look,” to provide an update on the state’s budget and hurricane relief. He also discusses legislation that has caught the most attention and concern, including measures that would change how the state school superintendent is selected, online sports betting and a measure that aims to remove anything related to diversity, equity, and inclusion from schools and colleges.   Then, Rebecca Serna, the executive director of Propel ATL, and crash victim Satya Bhan, discuss the findings of the new PROPEL ATL report, “The Human Cost of Mobility."  According to the report, 344 people died across three metro Atlanta counties due to traffic crashes in 2023. Also, among the report's findings — pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities mirror homicide levels, but they don't receive as much media attention.   Plus, Rose reads a remembrance tribute for jazz legend Roy Ayers. He died on Tuesday. He was 84.   Lastly, March 7 marks a turning point in the fight for civil rights in the United States. Sixty years ago, the then 25-year-old John Lewis and fellow civil rights activist Hosea Williams, planned to lead hundreds in a peaceful march for voting rights from Selma, Ala. to the state capitol in Montgomery, Ala. As the protestors approached the Edmund Pettus Bridge, they were met with violence at the hands of state troopers. We'll look back to the days before, the day of, and what came after, on what is now known as Bloody Sunday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a new Brookings Institute commentary, experts explain why they believe Atlanta is not the blueprint for public safety reform. Through their analysis, they make the comparison to policing in Baltimore and St. Louis to highlight what does and doesn’t work, particularly following the creation of the heavily protested Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, also known to critics as ‘Cop City.’ Ali Sewell, a sociology professor at Emory University, and Keon Gilbert, a fellow at The Brookings Institution in governance studies and a professor of public health at Saint Louis University, talk more about their report.   Elisabeth Omilami, the daughter of the late civil rights leaders Juanita and Hosea Williams, is a longtime actor, humanitarian and civil rights activist. She currently serves as the president of Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless. For “Closer Look’s” Women’s History Month series, “Piloting the Journey,” Omilami reflects on her journey and talks more about her ongoing efforts to combat hunger and poverty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to an article published by The Guardian, unmarked boxes on utility poles that contain cameras are appearing around Atlanta. The cameras appear to be installed outside the homes of people who oppose the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, also known as 'Cop City.' Timothy Pratt, an Atlanta area-based reporter talks more about his investigative report. In celebration of Women’s History Month, “Closer Look” is launching a new limited series called “Piloting the Journey.” We first hear from former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, who made history when she became the first woman to lead Georgia's capital city—serving two terms as mayor of Atlanta from 2002 to 2010. Franklin talks with show host Rose Scott about leadership and her journey in the world of politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Councilwoman Carmalitha L. Gumbs currently represents the City of South Fulton’s District 2. She joins “Closer Look” to discuss her decision to run against incumbent Mayor Khalid Kamau for the city’s top seat.   In 2023, Zaire Byrd says he was “unjustly expelled” from Tri-Cities High School in Fulton County. According to Byrd, it was due to a first-time offense of fighting with students who allegedly weren’t supposed to be on campus. The situation proved to be a life-changing moment for him. However, Byrd kept his life on a positive track and is now a freshman at Alabama A&M University. His mother, DeAndrea Byrd, is also using her son’s expulsion as an opportunity to enact change for Black students, who studies show, are disciplined at a disproportionate rate. Georgia is among the ten states that have refused to expand Medicaid. But Georgia is the only state that imposes a work requirement for its alternative to Medicaid. It's called Georgia Pathways to Coverage. A new analysis of Georgia Pathways by The Current and ProPublica shows the program has not met its goals for providing coverage, and even some Republicans wanted to back away from it. Margaret Coker, the co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Current Georgia, talks about her latest article that investigates the reported shortfalls of Georgia Pathways to Coverage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Across the nation and right here in Georgia, educators are working to address lingering learning gaps that predate the pandemic. Those literacy gaps are especially concerning among Atlanta’s Black and Brown students. According to a 2024 report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, 21% of local Black third graders and 34% of local Latino third graders read at a proficient level.  For the February installment of “Coffee Conversations,” the “Closer Look” team returns to The Ke’nekt Cooperative in the Westview neighborhood. Rose talks with guests about efforts to close Georgia’s reading gap through community-based literacy programs. Selected guests also read from their favorite children's books.   Guests include:  Kiyomi Rollins, the owner of The Ke’nekt Cooperative Lyric Eschoe, daughter of Kiyomi Rollins Dr. Enkeshi El-Amin, the owner of A Small Place Bookshop FeFe Handy, the founder and executive director of Page Turners Make Great Learners Cindy Jaret, president of Children Read WABE Southside reporter DorMiya Vance “Closer Look” producer LaShawn Hudson Karen Good Marable, the author of the children’s book “Yaya and the Sea” Elisabeth Jackson, author and illustrator of “Why Does The Cheshire Cat Grin?”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens delivered the 2025 State of the City Address on Tuesday night. During his address, Dickens stressed the importance of connecting neighborhoods. Among his points, the mayor briefly mentioned that in less than 18 months, people will be able to take trails from the Beltline to the Chattahoochee River. However, people, both for and against light rail on the Beltline were left searching for more details and are now wondering what’s next. Matthew Rao, the chairperson for BeltLine Rail Now, and Hans Klein, an associate professor in the School of Public Policy at the Georgia Institute of Technology, share more about their opposing visions for the Beltline. Plus, more than 9.2 million workers in 21 states saw a minimum wage increase at the start of 2025. However, that does not include Georgia, which remains at $5.15/per hour. But by law, the state must pay the federal minimum wage of $7.25/per hour. Forest Park Mayor Angelyne Butler joins “Closer Look,” to talk more about how the City of Forest Park is offering a $23.46 minimum wage for its full-time city employees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a little more than five years job, DeKalb County Police Chief Mirtha Ramos is stepping down. The announcement of Chief Ramos’ decision to step down comes as DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s office recently unveiled a new police retention and recruitment initiative. Ramos returns to “Closer Look,” to reflect on her tenure and to talk about her decision to step down.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amid ongoing nationwide efforts to put restrictions on teaching specific segments of American history, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights has launched a free learning portal to expand access. It aids teachers and parents in bringing a complete history about civil and human rights to students. Nicole Moore, who serves as the director of education for the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, talks more about the portal that offers ready-to-go lesson plans, worksheets and other interactive tools. She also explains how the lessons are taught to help students connect with their history.  Plus, the Atlanta E-bike Rebate Program launched in 2024 with the goal of eliminating financial barriers to e-bike ownership, reducing transportation costs, and promoting a shift from car-dependent travel. The program was funded by a $1 million investment from the Atlanta City Council and administered by the Atlanta Regional Commission in partnership with Propel ATL.  Bennett Foster, the managing director of mobility at the Atlanta Regional Commission, and LaMiiko Moore, a recipient of the e-bike rebate, talk with Rose about a new report that details specifics about the E-bike Rebate Program—such as who received the citywide rebate, and how the rebate was used. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Terri McFadden is a pediatrician at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Hughes Spalding and a professor of pediatrics at Emory University. She earned her nickname, Georgia’s ‘Godmother of Literacy,' by promoting childhood literacy to improve pediatric health and development. McFadden does this work as a medical director at Reach Out and Read Georgia, an initiative that provides books to children during their doctor’s appointments. She talks with Rose about the program, her decades-long work to transform the lives of children through books and her ongoing efforts to close Georgia’s literacy gap for young readers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence is becoming ingrained in many industries. This includes its increasing use among some news outlets. However, is there an ethical dilemma around transparency, cultural biases and potential job displacement? Laura Downey, the president of the Society of Professional Journalists Georgia, Dan Whisenhunt, the editor and founder of Decaturish, and Nsenga Burton, an award-winning journalist and entrepreneur, and the editor-in-chief of The Burton Wire share their thoughts about AI and whether or not they believe it should be used in journalism.   Plus, Wanona Satcher is on a mission to address the housing crisis. She is the CEO and founder of Mākhers Studio, a construction and management firm that specializes in transforming shipping containers into housing and retail solutions. For a one-on-one conversation, Rose stopped by the Mākhers Studio in East Point, Georgia, and talked with Satcher about her vision to use micro-housing as a sustainable and viable option to solve the home affordability problem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With a change in presidential administrations comes a change in priorities when it comes to climate change. With his second term in office, President Trump has once again withdrawn the U.S. from the Paris Agreement. At the same time, Atlanta-based Greenlink Analytics is working with local and state governments to create policies and programs addressing climate change. CEO Matt Cox is also urging officials to factor in communities facing economic, health, and environmental challenges. Cox shares why he believes focusing on these communities is key to making meaningful reforms. Plus, Rosaline Kwan, the Consul General of Canada to the Southeast United States, discusses the Trump administration’s ongoing trade disputes between Canada and the U.S. and how tariffs, and retaliatory tariffs, could have impacts on Georgia's economy. Kwan will also share what she knows from her two decades of working in international trade.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we bring you an exclusive interview with the now outgoing Inspector General for the City of Atlanta. This follows our series of interviews with Shannon Manigault about the challenges she says have emerged while investigating alleged corruption, abuse and fraud within city government. During a press conference Monday morning, Manigault claims her investigations have been hindered, she’s faced bullying, and her family has been targeted. In stepping away from her position, this leaves behind dozens of open investigations into Atlanta government officials which she describes as “serious.” Her announcement also comes just before the Atlanta City Council is expected to vote on legislation that would limit the control of the inspector general’s office. Today, Manigault speaks only to “Closer Look” to discuss her decision and why she says there was never a pathway to compromise in working with city officials.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WABE politics reporter Sam Gringlas returns to “Closer Look,” to provide an update on the latest news from the Gold Dome, including a variety of proposed bills involving transgender athletes, Gov. Kemp’s civil litigation reform package, gun safety and Medicaid expansion.   Plus, WABE, in partnership with the Atlanta History Center and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, recently held a public screening of the documentary “American Coup: Wilmington 1898.” The film, slated to air on WABE TV on Feb. 23, at 6 P.M., explores the 1898 deadly race massacre and insurrection that happened in North Carolina’s largest city. On Wednesday's edition of "Closer Look," we aired the panel discussion and Q&A, which was moderated by Rose. Dr. Crystal Sanders, an associate professor of African American studies at Emory University, Brad Lichtenstein, an award-winning filmmaker and founder of 371 Productions, and DJ Sims, the director of the Truth + Transformation Initiative at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, participated in the panel discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deondra Rose is an associate professor of political science and history who serves as the Kevin D. Gorter Associate Professor at the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University. She joins “Closer Look” to discuss her latest book, "The Power of Black Excellence: HBCUs and the Fight for American Democracy." The book explores the history of HBCUs and the distinctive role they have played in shaping American democracy since 1837.   Plus, Amanda Lee Williams used her love for improv to help address her father’s needs during his battle with memory loss. Now, she’s the program director for Improving Care Through Improv. She has teamed up with experts from Emory and Georgia State University to help train other caregivers and prepare them for unexpected moments. Rose talks to Williams,  Dr. Candace Kemp, a gerontology professor at Georgia State University and Dr. Ted Johnson from Emory University's Department of Medicine. They discussed more details about the program. Williams also provided an improv demonstration about how they prepare caregivers to talk with someone who is experiencing memory loss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Brian Kemp says big payouts from civil litigation is a major issue facing the state. Today, the first legislative hearing is being held on Governor Kemp’s “tort reform” package, which are being considered in SB 68 and SB 69. Georgia State University Law Professor Leslie Wolf and Elizabeth Chamblee Burch, with the University of Georgia School of Law, discuss what these proposed reforms could mean for taxpayers, business owners and people on either side of civil litigation.   Plus, Allison Williams is an educator and a virtual early learning curriculum specialist. She talks about her career journey as a teacher in public, private and charter school environments. She’ll also share what led her to create Tutor Tots Online, a virtual learning pod that offers a variety of classes for children aged 4-6. She’ll also discuss what she considers to be the solutions for closing Georgia’s literacy gap.   Lastly, Atlanta City Councilwoman Marci Collier Overstreet returns to "Closer Look," to discuss the potential future of Greenbriar Mall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump wants to dismantle the Department of Education. However, it will take an act of Congress to do so. So far, some of the agency’s employees have been put on paid leave. Also, this week, the House Education and Workforce Committee held a hearing on the state of education. Witnesses addressing the committee represented special interest groups, advocating for or against dismantling the federal agency. For Feedback Friday show host Rose Scott," talks with listeners who share their thoughts about the unfolding situation and the role of the U.S. Department of Education. Scott was joined by Tiffany Fick, the chief of strategy at Equity in Education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new Georgia Tech and Stanford study shows automatic speech recognition (ASR) models, used in voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, may not be as accurate when transcribing English speakers with a minority dialect. However, the study found the transcription of Standard American English (SAE) "significantly outperformed" three dialects: Spanglish, Chicano English and African American Vernacular English. We revisit Rose’s conversation with Camille Harris, PhD candidate in computer science at Georgia Institute of Technology, and lead author of the study. Harris discusses some of the key findings from her study.    Plus, Elizabeth J. West, a professor of English and co-director of Georgia State University’s Center for Studies on Africa and Its Diaspora, and her research partners, Dr. Joshua Jackson and John Washington discuss a mapping project that could be used to reveal the locations of where more than 5,000 enslaved persons and their enslavers lived in Harris County before the Civil War.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Santiago Marquez, the CEO of the Latin American Association, shares how the LAA prepared Atlanta's immigrant community for the possibility of deportation before the start of President Trump’s second term in office. He also discusses the association’s ongoing work to protect people living in the U.S. without legal status amid the launch of ICE’s “targeted operations.”   Plus, it’s the third annual Latino Day at the Georgia State Capitol. Manuel Portillo, a DACA recipient and a member of the LGBTQ-plus community, discusses why he decided to join GALEO at the capitol and advocate for immigration, education and DEI.   Lastly, Rose checks in with WABE’s evening news editor Melissa Feito. She discusses what groups are advocating for during this year’s Latino Day at the state capitol. We also hear from WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali. He provides an update about the legislative session and some of the proposed bills that are advancing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.